A practical vehicle-shipping checklist covering fuel, keys, alarms, loose accessories, leaks, photos, personal items and pickup-day readiness. The goal is to explain what matters operationally so customers can make better-informed decisions without turning a real shipment into a generic checklist.
Start with the condition the carrier was promised
The carrier is dispatched based on the vehicle information supplied when the shipment is arranged. If a vehicle was represented as running, it should start, steer, roll and brake normally at pickup. If that changes, tell the broker before the truck arrives. A non-running vehicle can often still be transported, but it may require a winch, different loading position or different equipment.
Keep the fuel level modest
A vehicle does not need a full tank for transport. A modest amount of fuel—often around a quarter tank—is normally enough for loading, unloading and short repositioning while avoiding unnecessary weight. If a carrier gives a different instruction for a particular shipment, follow the carrier-specific requirement.
Remove valuables and secure loose equipment
Remove cash, electronics, documents and other valuables. Take down or secure loose aftermarket accessories when practical, including removable antennas, roof accessories or items that could move in transit. Personal-property rules vary by carrier, and cargo coverage for the vehicle should never be assumed to cover belongings left inside it.
Check for leaks, warning lights and special starting procedures
Tell the broker about fluid leaks, weak batteries, ignition switches, battery cutoffs, air suspension controls, manual parking-brake quirks or any unusual starting procedure. A small detail that is easy to explain in advance can become a major problem on a multi-vehicle carrier if the driver discovers it while loading.
Provide the keys the driver actually needs
The driver needs the keys or fobs required to start, steer and access the vehicle. If wheel locks, battery compartments, trunks or special compartments matter to the move, make sure the appropriate key or tool is available. Do not hand over a large personal key ring when only the vehicle keys are needed.
Photograph the vehicle before pickup
Take clear, time-stamped photographs in good light from all four corners and closer images of existing scratches, dents, wheel damage or other notable conditions. Photos are most useful when they complement—not replace—the pickup inspection recorded on the Bill of Lading.
Be present for the pickup inspection when possible
Walk around the vehicle with the driver. Review the condition notation before signing. If someone else will release the car, make sure that person understands that this inspection matters. The same process should be repeated at delivery before the vehicle leaves the delivery location.
Think about truck access before pickup day
A large car carrier may not be able to enter a narrow street, low-tree neighborhood, gated community, apartment complex or restricted roadway. Discuss access ahead of time and identify a safe nearby meeting location if necessary. Door-to-door service means as close to the addresses as safely and legally practical—not forcing a commercial truck into an unsafe location.
Practical takeaway: Gold Coast Auto Transport LLC is an FMCSA-authorized property broker. Carrier availability, equipment, policies and live market conditions vary by shipment, so current details should be confirmed before dispatch.
Related guides: Non-running vehicles • Bill of Lading and inspections • Personal items
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